Energy suppliers Octopus Energy and OVO are continuing schemes that give away free heated throws and electric blankets to support customers struggling with their bills. The items are intended to help people stay warm without heating their whole home.
Octopus Energy's heated throws scheme
Octopus Energy confirmed this month that it will run its free electric throw scheme again in 2026, alongside its heated throws scheme. The company says the scheme is designed to support customers most in need, particularly those with specific vulnerabilities and medical needs, prioritising those customers to make sure the blankets reach the right people.
The firm suggests that customers who can afford it should consider buying a heated throw themselves. It notes that they tend to cost around £40, and research shows the typical home could save £300 by using a heated throw rather than always heating the whole house.
The company explained that one of its staff calculated that heating a whole home cost about £4 a day, while an energy-efficient heated throw could heat a person for just 2-4p an hour. This makes heated throws a more cost-effective way to stay warm, particularly for people with mobility issues, those who spend a lot of time in one spot, or those with medical conditions that make them feel the cold more.
Who qualifies and how to apply
Octopus Energy said it has been targeting people who need a blanket most, offering one per home to support as many people as possible. As of August 2026, the company has given out more than 110,000 throws. Analysis of customers who received a throw found they saved up to 10-20% on their bills on average in the winter months, equating to a £300 saving over a year.
The first step for customers is to apply to the Octo Assist fund, which is part of a range of money-saving and financial aid schemes offered by the company.
OVO's Extra Support and Energy Saving schemes
OVO's Extra Support scheme aims to help customers who need additional help to manage and pay for their energy. The company said it is there to help customers who have had a change in circumstances or an ongoing need.
Its Energy Saving Support scheme offers help ranging from free home efficiency kits to heated throws, along with tailored advice and funding options to reduce ongoing energy costs. Under its Direct Financial Support schemes, eligible customers may qualify for direct financial support towards their energy bill or to support existing energy debt. Specialist debt and benefits advice is also available to help people maximise their income.
OVO said customers who think they will struggle to pay their bills might be eligible for support. When applying, factors such as household income, disposable income, and medical needs are taken into account to prioritise those who need help most. The company said it will not be able to offer everything to everyone but hopes to help as many people as possible, with specialist teams available to speak to customers worried about energy costs.
